Typically, we key in on temperatures when considering home comfort, but the humidity levels in your home play a bigger role than you think. Usually when we hear the word humidity, we jump to the idea of undesirable weather outside. But, it is strongly advocated that your indoor space holds a humidity level between 30 and 50 percent. What exactly does that mean? The air in your house is holding between 30 to 50 percent of the maximum amount of moisture it can hold.
What takes place when a home has too much or too little humidity?
Too Much Humidity
If you haven’t been in the situation, chances are you have at least heard about the influence humidity can have on how the temperatures feel outside. An 80-degree day in one location might feel cooler than an 80-degree day in an environment with increased humidity. Humidity can impact the temps in your house as well. If there is too much humidity, it is harder for your body to monitor internal temperatures.
Dehumidified air feels cooler, so you could set your thermostat at a higher temp and sustain comfort levels, which could provide you with energy savings.
Too Little Humidity
While drier air might be a relief outdoors, too little humidity also has undesirable implications inside the home. Dry air can trigger your skin to feel cold and itchy and result in sore throats and chapped lips. The amount of static electricity is enhanced, so you’ll find yourself getting hit with little shocks every time you touch a doorknob.
Lack of moisture takes a toll on the wood throughout your home, initiating cracking and shrinking in your furniture, trim and even floors. The dry air also affects your body’s mucous membranes, heightening your risk of coming down with colds or having breathing difficulties.
What can you do?
Luckily, there are options to help you assess and adjust humidity levels in the home. A smart thermostat can help you assess the air in your home to understand humidity levels. And if you are having difficulties getting in the 30 to 50 percent range for humidity, there are humidifiers and dehumidifiers that offer a solution for getting to the right amount of humidity.
If you are noticing any of the warning signs mentioned above, or if you want an expert to come out and check out your home’s humidity levels, Western Mechanical, Inc. can help. You can book an appointment by contacting us at 435-753-5515. Our experts will answer your questions and help you understand next steps for achieving the best humidity level for your home comfort.